Football: Kozluk opts to step up

Having recently brought the curtain down on an 18-year playing career, Rob Kozluk has turned his attention to coaching.

The former Sheffield United and Barnsley defender has hung up his playing boots to concentrate on a full-time coaching position with Evo-Stik Northern Premier League Ilkeston FC.

The 36-year-old, who began his career at Derby County, will work primarily with the Robins academy but also with the first-team.

Ilkeston manager Kevin Wilson said: “Rob has been working with the academy for a while but, after picking up a few injuries, decided to stop playing and concentrate on coaching.

“Rob feels it is the right time to take the next step. He already has his ‘B’ licence and is working towards the ‘A’ licence.

“I’m delighted to have him on board. He is a great influence on the players.

“His role is focused on the academy and he brings excellent experience from playing in the Football League.”

In his first spell at Bramall Lane, Kozluk went on to make over 200 appearances for United and was part of the side who were relegated from the top flight in 2007. He then moved to Barnsley and played 75 times for the South Yorkshire outfit.